Palm Springs architecture


 

On a recent trip to California we stopped in the Rat Pack’s playground; Palm Springs. This desert oasis was an ideal escape for the stars to flee Lala land for the weekend.  Also, Hollywood studio’s often had offices and lots in the desert and contracts required the stars to live within easy reach of their work. To avoid having to take the drive back and forth every week many stars decided to buy property there. In many cases commissioning famous architects like Albert Frey, Raymond Loewy or Richard Neutra to design lavish bungalows or retreats. At the same time, the US economy and post WW II optimism caused for Americans to take their shiny cars and exploring their country’s back routes. Palm Springs was a popular destination resulting in demand for affordable lodging.  Many motels sprung up, and, along with many of the private homes built back then, are still there to see for todays visitor. This makes Palm Springs heaven for those admiring mid 20th century architecture.

While there I took a tour of some of the most stunning examples of architecture from this era.

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Kendrick Bangs Kellogg's Chart House restaurant

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Front of building

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Palm Springs visitors center. Originally designed as a gas station by Albert Frey

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Kaufmann house, designed by Richard Neutra

Royal Sun Inn hotel2

Royal Sun Inn hotel, architect unknown to me (anyone?)

 

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Albert Frey's Palm Springs City Hall, detail

 

2 responses to “Palm Springs architecture

  1. Pingback: Palm Springs 1963 rotating house for sale | Home voyeurs.. we ALL do it!

  2. Pingback: The hunt for the affordable buttoned sofa | Home voyeurs.. we ALL do it!

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